When new coaching staffs take over for old ones, there will be an inevitable shakeup of the roster as well. That means players who might’ve been safe with one aren’t any longer with another. Gerald Everett was a cut everybody saw coming. The veteran tight end was a complete waste of money and roster spot throughout last season. The only surprise is that he wasn’t dumped sooner. No, the first surprise by GM Ryan Poles and new head coach Ben Johnson came with the dismissal of DeMarcus Walker.
Unlike Everett, he has been a steady and reliable presence for the team since arriving two years ago. Walker served as a versatility defensive lineman, able to create some pass rush both inside and outside. His dogged mentality and vocal leadership were also welcome additions. However, it is likely his advancing age (31) and tweener skillset didn’t appeal to new defensive coordinator Dennis Allen.
Ryan Poles will have options to replace Walker.
Several of them have ties to Allen. The first that comes to mind is Chase Young. The former #2 overall pick spent last season with the New Orleans Saints, where the coordinator had been the head coach. He ended up having one of his best seasons, notching 5.5 sacks and 21 quarterback hits. Another one to watch is Marcus Davenport. The former 1st round pick had his best years under Allen in New Orleans. His time with Detroit hasn’t gone as hoped. Perhaps a reunion with his old coach in Chicago is just the rehab he needs. Josh Sweat, Khalil Mack, Haason Reddick, and Demarcus Lawrence are also names worth watching. It comes down to how much money Ryan Poles is ready to spend and who his new coaches would prefer.
